*Selling Your Privacy For… ‘Whatever, As Long As It’s For Free’

Jokes/satire usually also contain a small grain of truth. Same is true for the clip by the Onion Network (below). The clip perfectly highlights the phenomenon of selling one’s privacy (e.g. consuming free internet access in exchange for georeferenced user data which is most precious for advertiser) and it is interesting to see speculations by the makers of the clip how far users might actually go in return for free services.

For all of you who think that the whole clip is ridiculous I recommend to check out the ‘free’ service Peter Pays which enables users t make long distance calls for free in exchange for watching ads while being on the phone. The basic idea of the video however combines that idea which tailored ads. Enough words. Enjoy!

The Onion Network: New Google Phone Service Whispers Targeted Ads Directly Into Users' Ears. Click onto the image to watch the clip.

PS: One could also go on at this point about the separation between ads and content, but no… it’s a weekend post.